A few days ago, videos of Mukesh Ambani's wife Nita Ambani visiting a snack shop in Varanasi to have her favourite aloo chaat went viral. Not only did she enjoy the food, but Nita was also seen interacting with local people about her husband's and family's preferred snacks.
She revealed that the family mostly prefers home-cooked food. Interestingly, Ambani Sr, a vegetarian, is very strict with his diet and eats from outside only once a week. Nita also revealed that the Gujarati snack panki, made of rice flour batter topped with cheese, is his favourite snack.
As the video went viral, netizens commented that even Ambani's choice of indulgence was a relatively healthy option. The snack, which also has fenugreek leaves and spices like turmeric, has an earthy taste as it is prepared in banana leaves and eaten with chutneys and achar. Here's why panki can be a healthy option for you too:
The banana leaf factor
Like many Kerala dishes, panki is also cooked between banana leaves which adds a natural aroma that augments the taste. Experts say banana leaves have antioxidants that are transferred to the food while cooking in small quantities. Moreover, it's an extremely hygienic cooking method too.
Vitamins, minerals and carbs
Panki has carbs from the rice flour, vitamins and minerals from fenugreek, spices and the herbs used in it. As it's cooked with a limited amount of ghee or butter, the fat content is low.
Naturally gluten-free
Those with gluten sensitivity need not worry about enjoying panki as its main ingredient is rice flour. Though it is low in fibre, the presence of fenugreek ensures enough fibre which aids in digestion.
Part of a weight-loss diet
Thanks to its low calories, low fat, gluten-free profile, panki can easily be part of a weight-loss diet. It also has a low glycemic index. It is sometimes prepared with yoghurt, which takes care of the protein content. The dish can also keep you fuller for a long time.
